My blog is mostly about wildlife, particularly birds, walking, days out, all growing things and anything else that comes to mind.

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Saturday, 17 April 2010

It's those Grebes again ...

Although I've been out and about a bit recently, I haven't yet posted the pictures. But today I went over to Barnes and the courting Great Crested Grebes were still together. No head wagging or reed-dancing this time but the weather was amazing - the sun shone and was hot; the air was comfortably fresh and there was no wind. Lovely - just my sort of weather!!

As a result the conditions for taking pictures were wonderful and the water so still. So - I just couldn't resist!!

I hadn't realised how clear the water was until I took this shot just as the Grebe dived. It's a pity I hadn't anticipated it as I've just missed getting the head in shot!!

Further around and a Little Grebe this time - pretty little birds!!

And in one area, there were at least three (and possibly four) Redshanks..

A coot family came into view.....

Elsewhere high up in a tree, a female Chaffinch

I love this time of the year when the Butterflies start being visible again..

A Speckled Wood.

and a Brimstone...

and finally a Ladybird :D

Chiff-chaffs, Blackcaps and Cetti's Warblers were heard everywhere it seemed; but only the most fleeting glimpses of all of them. And heard my first, I think, Sedge Warbler (or it could have been a Reed warbler - I'm not good at telling them apart).

Fingers crossed we'll continue to have this spell of decent weather although, looking at the forecast..........!!

Excellent selection Tricia.I think our weather has improved no end since that volcano eruption and ban on flying lolLove those little Coot chicks. They've a beauty all their own.Must admit I struggle to tell the difference between Sedge and Reed, when they're singing. I'd guess if it was in some bushes/brambles, it'd be a Sedge. Not had Reed Warblers here yet.

About Me

A lover of wildlife and birds in particular and a keen photographer
who's learning all the time!
For me there's nothing better than the great outdoors and escaping into
it as often as I can; even if it's only a walk very locally. I love the
sea and water in any form. There's something magical about reflections
in very still water.